About Us | CORD Inc.

Our History and Mission

"When I think of the mission of the Church, I am frequently compelled to recall the face of the poorest and most helpless person I have ever seen and ask myself if the program we are undertaking will be of any use to that person. Will it restore him the dignity that every man should enjoy? Will it set him free?"

Charles D. Neff was not afraid to think radically about the Community of Christ's mission (formerly the R.L.D.S. church) in an imperfect world. Serving as an apostle from 1958 to 1984, Charles D. Neff not only broadened the church’s membership but also its outlook on the world. Starting congregations in the Philippines, Kenya, India, and other locations, Neff tirelessly challenged the church to develop a theology and mission that would embrace new cultures. His intense concern for the world’s poor led him to create CORD, an organization devoted to developing long-term solutions for poverty. Neff’s unwavering belief in the worth of all persons and the importance of community helped ground the church as it continued to expand internationally.

The Community of Christ embraces a holistic mission that addresses spiritual and material poverty, both personal and social transformation. CORD is a Non-Governmental, Not for Profit (NGO/NFP) that is designated as the social development arm of the Community of Christ in the Philippines and a leader in environmental renewal. Its role is three-fold, to abolish poverty, end suffering and pursue peace on earth. Care for creation always at the forefront of any project as well. CORD's humanitarian work, although done in connection with the church, is for the uplifting of all people without regard to religion, creed, race, ethnicity or gender.

CORD's work may be summed up in this way:

1. Empower, teach and enable people to break the cycle of poverty.

2. Access and evaluate their needs in a harmonious and holistic manner.

3. Access and engage government and private agencies for resources and training.

4. Organize people into cooperative association so they may act collectively in the projects they undertake.